Ottilie C. (Kruse) Bertolini

Ottilie Christina Bertolini (Kruse), of York passed away peacefully in her home of 50 years on Scituate Road on January 16th. Ottilie, “Otti” to all, was born in Hanau, Germany in June of 1925 to Theo and Gretel Kruse. She met her husband of over 50 years, Donald Bertolini, while he was stationed in Germany and came to this country in January of 1954 to make York her home.

Otti’s first job in York, of which she was very proud, was at York Village Elementary School as Secretary to the Principal. She was loved by both students and staff. In 1957 she set her career aside to raise her three children and then to play the very active role of “Omi” to her six grandchildren. Later in life she enjoyed a summer job for many years at the Whispering Sands in York Beach.

Otti was a devoted wife and a loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She was at her best when surrounded by all her family, which was often.

She is survived by her daughter Heidi Stevens and husband Bob of York, Angela Stasz and husband Tom of York and her son, Garret Bertolini and his wife Michele of Cape Neddick; grandchildren, Erin, Ryann, Bret, Hannah, Katherine and Andrew; nine great-grandchildren, Adelynn, Aiyla, Evelynn, Luke, Jack, Ottilia (her namesake), Zen, Zion and Aurora and her bonus great-grandchildren; Mikey and Autumn. She is also survived by her two sisters, Hildegard Puth and Hannelore Ditzel as well as extended family in Germany; her sisters-in-law, Jean Brown and Barbara Kimball, several nieces and a nephew. She was predeceased by her husband, Donald B Bertolini.

A very special thank you to Beacon Hospice and all her caregivers. Our deepest appreciation to Kathy for her wonderful care and love for our mother.

There will be no services. The family will hold a private burial at Arlington National Cemetery in the spring.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital or plant a tree.

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